Are you looking for a tasty, healthy spread? This Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam is simple to make and bursting with flavor! With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a delightful jam perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts. I’ll share easy steps and tips to get the best taste and texture. Let’s dive into the world of homemade, delicious spreads!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavor Burst: This jam captures the essence of fresh strawberries, providing a vibrant and natural sweetness that elevates any dish.
- Coconut Creaminess: The addition of creamy coconut milk gives the jam a luxurious texture and a tropical twist that you won’t find in traditional jams.
- Healthy Chia Boost: Chia seeds not only thicken the jam but also add a nutritious boost of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants.
- Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast or snacks, this jam can be used on toast, yogurt, or even as a filling for desserts, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
This Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam uses simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you need:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup creamy coconut milk
– 3 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– A pinch of sea salt
These ingredients work together to create a sweet and tasty spread. Fresh strawberries bring natural sweetness and bright flavor. You can adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. Coconut milk adds creaminess and a tropical twist. Chia seeds help thicken the jam while adding texture and nutrition. The vanilla extract and sea salt enhance all the flavors.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to make a delicious jam. Each bite will be a burst of strawberry and coconut goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Strawberries
Start by placing your chopped strawberries in a medium saucepan. Add the honey or maple syrup. Cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally. You want the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. The strawberries will soften and break down into a juicy compote. This step is key for flavor.
Preparing the Mixture
After cooking, take the saucepan off the heat. Let the strawberry mixture cool for about 5 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors blend well. Once cooled slightly, grab a fork or a potato masher. Mash the strawberries to your preferred texture. You can make it chunky or smooth, depending on what you like.
Combining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add more flavor. Mix in the creamy coconut milk and chia seeds. Don’t forget the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. Stir everything together really well. Make sure the chia seeds spread evenly throughout the mixture. This will help the jam set nicely.
Setting the Jam
To let your jam set, you have two options. First, you can leave it at room temperature for 1-2 hours. This allows the chia seeds to absorb moisture. Alternatively, place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Both methods work well. After the setting time, give the jam a good stir. Taste it and adjust sweetness if needed. Enjoy your tasty spread!
Tips & Tricks
Sweetness Adjustments
To adjust sweetness, taste your jam before it sets. If it needs more sweetness, add honey or maple syrup. Start with a little, then mix and taste again. You can use agave syrup or stevia as alternatives if you want to try something different.
Texture Preferences
Do you like chunky or smooth jam? For a chunky jam, mash the strawberries less. If you prefer it smooth, mash them more. You can also use a blender for a finer texture. Just be careful not to over-blend.
Presentation Ideas
For serving, use a small glass jar. It’s cute and keeps the jam fresh. Top it with a sprig of mint or a whole strawberry for color. This makes it pop on your table. Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or yogurt for a tasty treat!
Pro Tips
- Use Ripe Strawberries: The riper your strawberries are, the sweeter and more flavorful your jam will be. Look for berries that are deep red and fragrant for the best results.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your preference. Taste the mixture before it cools to find the perfect balance of sweetness for your palate.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other fruits or spices like cinnamon or lemon zest to create unique flavor combinations that suit your taste.
- Storage Tips: Store the jam in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It should keep well for about a week, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Health Benefits
Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are tiny but packed with nutrition. They contain protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids. Just two tablespoons give you:
– 140 calories
– 4 grams of protein
– 10 grams of fiber
– 5 grams of omega-3s
These seeds help you feel full and support heart health. They also boost digestion due to their high fiber content. When you eat them, they absorb water and expand, which can help keep you hydrated.
Benefits of Coconut
Coconut brings rich taste and health perks. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can give you energy. Here’s what you get from coconut:
– Good fats for your heart
– Antioxidants that fight free radicals
– Fiber that aids digestion
Coconut can also help improve your mood. Eating coconut may help keep your skin healthy, too.
Overall Benefits of Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam
Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam is a great snack choice. It has fewer calories than many spreads. This jam is also rich in fiber and natural sweetness. Each scoop offers:
– A low-calorie option
– A boost of nutrients from strawberries and coconut
– A fun way to enjoy fruit
You can spread it on toast or mix it into yogurt. This jam makes a tasty addition to breakfast or snacks.
Variations
Fruit Variations
You can change up the fruit in this jam. Try using different berries. Raspberries and blueberries work well. They add unique flavors and colors. You can also mix in tropical fruits. Pineapple and mango add a sweet twist. These fruits make the jam exciting and fresh.
Flavor Additions
Add some herbs or spices for extra flavor. Fresh mint or basil can brighten the taste. Small amounts of these herbs give a nice touch. You can also use spices. Cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth. These flavors change the jam’s profile and keep things interesting.
Vegan & Dietary Adjustments
If you want a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps the sweetness while staying plant-based. You can also adjust for allergies. Use nut-free milk if needed. For a gluten-free option, check all ingredients. These simple swaps make the jam safe and tasty for everyone.
FAQs
How long does Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam last?
Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam can last up to two weeks in the fridge. To store it, place the jam in a clean glass jar with a tight lid. It’s best to use a jar that is not too large. This way, you can eat it before it spoils. Always check for any signs of mold or off smells before use.
Can this jam be adapted for canning?
Yes, you can can this jam! To do this, you need to follow safe canning guidelines. Start by sterilizing your jars in hot water. Fill the jars with the jam, leaving some space at the top. Seal the lids tightly. Then, process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep the jam fresh for months.
Is it necessary to refrigerate homemade jam?
Yes, it is best to refrigerate homemade jam for safety. Refrigeration slows down spoilage. If you have canned the jam properly, it can stay at room temperature until opened. Once opened, keep it in the fridge. This keeps your jam tasty and safe to eat for longer.
You learned how to make Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam. From selecting fresh ingredients to blending and setting, each step is key. Remember, you can tweak sweetness and texture to fit your taste. This jam is more than tasty; it’s packed with health benefits from chia seeds and coconut. You can even explore fruit variations and flavor additions for fun twists. Enjoy your homemade jam, and make it your ow
